Iceberg salad with chicken and pears

Iceberg salad with chicken and pears - an explosion of flavors and textures!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 16 minutes
Total time: 26 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I will present a recipe for iceberg salad with chicken and pears, a light and quick dish, perfect for warm days or a light dinner. This salad combines the freshness of vegetables with the sweetness of fruits, offering a perfect contrast in every bite. It is a simple yet characterful recipe that will surely impress anyone who savors it.

A bit of history: Salads have been prepared for thousands of years, being an excellent way to utilize fresh vegetables and fruits. Combining proteins like chicken with fruits not only brings a delicious taste but also high nutritional value. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while pears are rich in fiber and vitamins. This dish will not only nourish your family but also bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Your ingredients for this salad are as follows:

- 600 g chicken fillet (opt for fresh, high-quality chicken meat)
- 1 iceberg lettuce (make sure it is crisp and green)
- 2 pears (preferably well-ripened but firm fruits)
- 6 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin is ideal)
- juice from 1/2 lemon (fresh is best)
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- a pinch of sugar
- salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the salad:

1. Start by washing the chicken fillets well under cold running water, then dry them with a kitchen towel. This step is essential for achieving an even browning.

2. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken fillets. Fry them for about 16 minutes, turning them on both sides until you achieve a nice appetizing brown color.

3. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and place it on a paper towel to absorb the excess oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.

4. Meanwhile, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Then, incorporate the remaining olive oil, whisking vigorously to emulsify the dressing.

5. Wash the iceberg lettuce under cold running water, then cut it into thin strips. In a large bowl, combine the lettuce strips with the prepared dressing, mixing well to ensure each leaf is coated.

6. Now it’s time to deal with the pears. Wash them, remove the seeds, and slice them thinly. Arrange the pear slices over the salad.

7. Slice the fried chicken into thin strips and mix it with the salad and pears. Each bite will be a delicious combination of textures and flavors!

Variations and suggestions:

- If you want to elevate this salad, add 100 g of blue cheese, which will bring a creamy note and intense flavor.
- You can substitute pears with apples or peaches, depending on your preferences.
- Another idea would be to add nuts or toasted seeds for an extra crunch.

Useful tips:

- Make sure the chicken is cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C to ensure it is well cooked.
- The dressing can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- If you prefer a cooler salad, you can add a few fresh mint or basil leaves.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This salad is not only tasty but also healthy. A serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. The chicken will provide you with quality protein, while the iceberg lettuce and pears offer essential fiber and vitamins. A diet rich in vegetables and fruits contributes to maintaining a healthy immune system and good digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use cooked chicken or leftovers from another meal?
Yes, that’s a great idea! Cooked chicken will save time and add extra flavor.

2. How can I make the dressing spicier?
Add a little chili sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for an extra kick.

3. Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
You can substitute chicken with tofu or cooked chickpeas and use a plant-based yogurt dressing.

4. How can I keep the salad from getting soggy?
Keep the dressing separate until serving. This way, the salad will remain crisp.

In conclusion, iceberg salad with chicken and pears is a perfect choice for a quick and healthy meal. This recipe will not only provide you with a delicious lunch but also the opportunity to experiment with ingredients and create a colorful and flavorful meal. So, embrace your culinary art and enjoy every bite!